Determining if a child has scoliosis involves looking at the position and alignment of key bony structures in the body. Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. Individuals with this condition have a backbone that pulls sideways as opposed to one that holds an upright position. Why some people develop this curvature is unknown, but the condition tends to run in families. Often the perception of scoliosis is done via a physical examination by a doctor. However, there are indicators that can help you discover if your child has scoliosis.
Step 1
Check the alignment of the hips. The Adam's Forward Bending Test requires that your child take off his shirt and stand straight. He bends over at the waist while you examine the level of his hips. An uneven distribution of the hips may indicate a curvature.
Step 2
Stand your child straight up with both feet together. Place your hands on her shoulders. If one of your hands is higher than the other, this might mean one shoulder sits higher due to a curve in the backbone.
Step 3
Watch your child as he stands casually. Leaning to one side can be an unconscious compensation for the spine curvature. This is not resting while leaning against a wall. Does he lean in one direction or the other when standing still and straight?
Step 4
Run your hands down to the bottom of the rib cage on both sides. Ribs sticking out on one side or sitting uneven is a symptom.
